Easter Island Statue Project Official Website
Field Notes & Documents

Some interesting field notes and documents from the EISP Archives. Click on images for a larger view.

Makemake Rock Art Motifs

Broken basalt "pillar" with Makemake petroglyphs, documented in 2006. ©JVT/EISP.Broken basalt "pillar" with Makemake petroglyphs, documented in 2006. ©JVT/EISP.Detail of Makemake petroglyphs on basalt "pillar" drawn by Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati in 2006 © JVT/EISP.Detail of Makemake petroglyphs on basalt "pillar" drawn by Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati in 2006 © JVT/EISP.

Makemake petroglyphs in Baquedano chamber of Rano Raraku quarry. Drawings by Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati © JVT/EISP.Makemake petroglyphs in Baquedano chamber of Rano Raraku quarry. Drawings by Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati © JVT/EISP.Baquedano chamber in Rano Raraku quarry. ©JVT/EISP.

Posted on May 8th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 2000s, Field Notes & Documents, Rock Art |

Ahu Vinapu: Moai 02-210-004

Moai 02-210-004 was first noted, in its current position, by Surgeon J. Linton Palmer of HMS Topaze. At that time, he sketched the incised “tattoo” lines on the neck and paintings on the torso (one was a crescent in red and white and the other a small anthropomorph in white). The combined elements evoked a person on a canoe or ship. The incised lines are similar to others found at Ahu Tongariki and Rano Raraku.

Moai 02-210-004.

Jo Anne Van Tilburg and EISP photographer David C. Ochsner on site at Vinapu with Moai 02-210-004 in the background. © EISP/JVT/Photo: M.A. Clark.

Jo Anne Van Tilburg and EISP photographer David C. Ochsner on site at Vinapu. © EISP/JVT/Photo: M.A. Clark.



Using the combined data collected on statues 004 and 005 at site 2-210 and that of pukao at adjacent 02-209-010, we produced a conjectural reconstruction. This statue is important in that it illustrates the ceremonial use of a fallen moai into historic time (at least until 1867-68). In addition to the rock art elements on Moai 02-210-004 and other information collected by Palmer, in 1913-15 Katherine Routledge was told of rituals dealing specifically with increase by invoking the post-1722 “foreign gods” who “came in ships.”©1991 EISP/JVT/Drawings: Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati. Using the combined data collected on statues 004 and 005 at site 2-210 and that of pukao at adjacent 02-209-010, we produced a conjectural reconstruction. This statue is important in that it illustrates the ceremonial use of a fallen moai into historic time (at least until 1867-68). In addition to the rock art elements on Moai 02-210-004 and other information collected by Palmer, in 1913-15 Katherine Routledge was told of rituals dealing specifically with increase by invoking the post-1722 “foreign gods” who “came in ships.”©1991 EISP/JVT/Drawings: Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati. Using the combined data collected on statues 004 and 005 at site 2-210 and that of pukao at adjacent 02-209-010, we produced a conjectural reconstruction. This statue is important in that it illustrates the ceremonial use of a fallen moai into historic time (at least until 1867-68). In addition to the rock art elements on Moai 02-210-004 and other information collected by Palmer, in 1913-15 Katherine Routledge was told of rituals dealing specifically with increase by invoking the post-1722 “foreign gods” who “came in ships.”©1991 EISP/JVT/Drawings: Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati. (left) This statue illustrates the ceremonial use of a fallen moai into historic time. The site was excavated by W. Mulloy and reported in the published papers of the Norwegian Archaeological Expedition. Although there were some anomalies in the descriptions of the statues, Mulloy’s team also produced a conjectural reconstruction view of the statues standing upright on the platform.

RELATED RECORD: See Raúl Paoa’s sketches, which were used as the basis of the pukao in this reconstruction.

Posted on May 8th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Statues Along Transport Roads

Detail of Quadrant 13 illustrating varying positions and orientations of eleven statues. Base survey map computer drafted and edited with additional data after Cristino F. et al. 1981, by Gordon Hull and Curtiss H. Johnson with Jo Anne Van Tilburg, 1993. From Easter Island Archaeology, Ecology and Culture by Jo Anne Van Tilburg. London: British Museum Press and Smithsonian Institution Press, 1994. Jo Anne Van Tilburg and Matthew Bates set up to survey the statue transport road. Photo: H. Debey © JVT.


Moai RR-002-066 on the exterior slopes of Rano Raraku, as photographed in 1983 and 2006, also sketched for measurements in 1994 and surveying in 2006. Photo: D. C. Ocshner and J. Van Tilburg © JVT. Drawings: Cristián Arévalo Pakarati © JVT. Moai RR-002-113 near Rano Raraku, photographed and drawn and surveyed in 2006. Measurements done previously in 1994. Photo: J. Van Tilburg © JVT. Drawings: Cristián Arévalo Pakarati © JVT. Moai RR-002-066 on the exterior slopes of Rano Raraku, as photographed in 1983 and 2006, also sketched for measurements in 1994 and surveying in 2006. Photo: D. C. Ocshner and J. Van Tilburg © JVT. Drawings: Cristián Arévalo Pakarati © JVT.


In 2006-2007, EISP resurveyed the statues along the “transport roads” and updated the visual documentation record for each statue. This new data was used to create a more accurate map that shows unique statue details.

Posted on May 5th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 2000s, Field Notes & Documents |

Statue Shape Variation

Statue type category examples. EISP/JVT/Drawing: Cristián Arévalo Pakarati.Statue type category examples.

©EISP/JVT/Drawing: Cristián Arévalo Pakarati.

Posted on May 5th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Moai Paro Digital Reconstruction

Moai Paro (30-220-001) is the tallest (989 cm) statue ever successfully raised upright on a ceremonial platform. It weighs approximately 82 m tons and wore a red scoria pukao (30-220-004) that added another 11-12 m tons of weight to the statue. Previously investigated by C. Smith and W. Mulloy, we documented it first in 1984 and 1991.

Reconstruction diagram of Moai Paro. ©2000 EISP/JVT/Drawing: Cristián Arévalo Pakarati.Working diagram detailing specific measuemrents of Moai Paro. ©1999 EISP/JVT/Sketch: Cristián Arévalo Pakarati.Moai Paro in situ. ©2002 EISP/JVT/Photos: J. Van Tilburg.Pukao (topknot) belonging to Moai Paro. ©2002 EISP/JVT/Photos: J. Van Tilburg.

In an effort to better understand Moai Paro in the context of Ahu Te Pito Kura and its natural environs, in 1999 and 2000-2002 we digitally reconstructed the statue using photographs, measurements and detailed drawings. On-site documentation required for this work was carried out by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati.


Film stills captured from a computer animation showing the 360° view of Moai Paro being re-erected onto its ahu. ©2002 EISP/JVT/Animation: Arnold Animations.Film stills captured from a computer animation showing the 360° view of Moai Paro being re-erected onto its ahu. ©2002 EISP/JVT/Animation: Arnold Animations.Film stills captured from a computer animation showing the 360° view of Moai Paro being re-erected onto its ahu. ©2002 EISP/JVT/Animation: Arnold Animations.

Posted on May 5th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 2000s, Field Notes & Documents |

Ahu O’Pepe 20-001

Ahu O'Pepe (20-001), an inland ahu, once held seven moai and as such may be compared to Ahu Akivi (16-001). © 2003 EISP/JVT/Photo: A. Perlin.

Ahu O'Pepe (20-001), an inland ahu, once held seven moai and as such may be compared to Ahu Akivi (16-001).. © 2003 EISP/JVT/Photo: A. Perlin.

Felipe Teao A. at Ahu O'Pepe with moai Torso 20-001-006, which is recarved into an impressive, bas-relief komari (vulva).©1987 EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Felipe Teao A. with a torso, recarved into bas-relief komari (vulva). ©1987 EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Drawing of moai Torso 20-001-006 recarved as a bas-relief komari (vulva), Ahu O'Pepe©1991 EISP/JVT/Drawing: C. Arévalo P.

Drawing of moai Torso 20-001-006 recarved as a bas-relief komari (vulva), Ahu O'Pepe©1991 EISP/JVT/Drawing: C. Arévalo P.


Field drawings document Moai 20-001-013 of Ahu O'Pepe. ©1991 EISP/JVT/Sketch: C. Arévalo P.

Field drawings document Moai 20-001-013 of Ahu O'Pepe. ©1991 EISP/JVT/Sketch: C. Arévalo P.

Moai 20-001-013 in situ at Ahu O'Pepe. ©1987 EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Moai 20-001-013 in situ at Ahu O'Pepe. ©1987 EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati, Rapanui artist and EISP co-investigator with Dr. Adrienne L. Kaeppler, curator of oceanic ethnology at the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, on site at Ahu O'Pepe, where Moai SI-WDC-001 originated. © 2002 EISP/Photo: J. Van Tilburg.

Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati, with Dr. Adrienne L. Kaeppler, curator at the NMNH.



RELATED RECORD: Two moai removed from Ahu O’Pepe are currently at the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution.

Posted on May 5th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, 2000s, Field Notes & Documents |

Statue Material & Base Shape Distribution Histograms

Percentage distribution of statue material. Histogram by Gordon Hull. From Easter Island Archaeology, Ecology and Culture by Jo Anne Van Tilburg. London: British Museum Press and Smithsonian Institution Press, 1994.Percentage distribution of statue base shape for 222 statues throughout the island. Histogram by Gordon Hull. From Easter Island Archaeology, Ecology and Culture by Jo Anne Van Tilburg. London: British Museum Press and Smithsonian Institution Press, 1994.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1990s, Field Notes & Documents |

Statue Distribution Map

Distribution of monolithic statue sites relative to Routledge's (1919) kin group divisions. Computer drafting by Gordon Hull. From Easter Island Archaeology, Ecology and Culture by Jo Anne Van Tilburg. London: British Museum Press and Smithsonian Institution Press, 1994.Distribution of monolithic statue sites relative to Routledge’s (1919) kin group divisions. Computer drafting by Gordon Hull. From Easter Island Archaeology, Ecology and Culture by Jo Anne Van Tilburg. London: British Museum Press and Smithsonian Institution Press, 1994.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1990s, Field Notes & Documents, Moai Inventory |

Ahu Tangi Uka

A view of the <em>moai</em> from the top of its head in the foreground, with Johannes Van Tilburg sketching in the background. ©2002 EISP/JVT/Photo: Alice Hom. Two views of the <em>ahu</em> platform. ©2002 EISP/JVT/Sketch: Johannes Van Tilburg.

This is a small ahu located within the defined boundary of “inland” sites (more than 150 m inland). It is on private land and not accessible to the public. One large moai is present on the site. The platform itself is perfunctory, with only a single course of upright stones forming the rear wall.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 2000s, Field Notes & Documents |

Rano Raraku Interior, Moai RR-03C-011

A composite overhead image of Moai RR-03C-011 in the Rano Raraku interior quarry. Separate digital photographs were taken from a camera mounted on a hand-held boom hoisted over the moai. An attached video monitor acted as a remote viewfinder. These photos were then composited together in Photoshop to make the overhead view. The context of this moai can be seen in the map on the previous page. Digital compositing by Debra Isaac.EISP field crewmember Gordon Hull sitting alongside Moai RR-03C-011, which is still attached to the bedrock, Rano Raraku Interior Quarry, 2002.EISP field crew members Debra Isaac and Bill White use a boom to capture digital overheads of Moai RR-03C-011, Rano Raraku Interior Quarry, 2002. Photo by Gordon Hull.
(Left) A composite overhead image of moai C-7 in the Rano Raraku interior quarry. Separate digital photographs were taken from a camera mounted on a hand-held boom hoisted over the moai. An attached video monitor acted as a remote viewfinder. These photos were then composited together in Photoshop to make the overhead view. The context of this moai can be seen in this map. Digital compositing by Debra Isaac.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 2000s, Field Notes & Documents, Rano Raraku Survey |

Smithsonian Moai SI-WDC-001

EISP archive photos of Moai SI-WDC-001, located at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, USA. Photos by Jo Anne Van Tilburg, 1986 © JVT/EISP.EISP archive photos of Moai SI-WDC-001, located at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, USA. Photos by Jo Anne Van Tilburg, 1986 © JVT/EISP.<em>Moai</em> installed at the Constitution Ave. entrance of the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., April 2006.(far left, 2 images) EISP archive photos of Moai SI-WDC-001, located at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, USA. Photos by Jo Anne Van Tilburg, 1986 © JVT/EISP.

(left) Moai SI-WDC-001 is currently installed inside the Constitution Ave. entrance of the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C.



EISP archive drawings of Head SI-WDC-002 (left) and Moai SI-WDC-001 (below), both originally from Ahu O'Pepe, are currently in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution. Drawings by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, 2000© JVT/EISP.EISP archive drawings of Head SI-WDC-002 (left) and Moai SI-WDC-001 (below), both originally from Ahu O'Pepe, are currently in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution. Drawings by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, 2000© JVT/EISP.EISP archive drawings of Head SI-WDC-002 (left) and Moai SI-WDC-001 (below), both originally from Ahu O'Pepe, are currently in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution. Drawings by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, 2000© JVT/EISP.EISP archive drawings of Head SI-WDC-002 (left) and Moai SI-WDC-001 (below), both originally from Ahu O'Pepe, are currently in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution. Drawings by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, 2000© JVT/EISP.


EISP archive drawings of Head SI-WDC-002 and Moai SI-WDC-001, both originally from Ahu O’Pepe, are currently in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution. Drawings by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, 2000© JVT/EISP.

RELATED RECORD: Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati, Rapanui artist and EISP co-investigator with Dr. Adrienne L. Kaeppler, curator of oceanic ethnology at the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, on site at Ahu O’Pepe.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents, Museum Objects Inventory |

Trachite Statue, Poike

EISP archive photos of trachite statue, Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photos by David C. Ochsner, © JVT/EISP.EISP archive photos of trachite statue, Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photos by David C. Ochsner, © JVT/EISP.EISP archive photos of trachite statue, Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photos by David C. Ochsner, © JVT/EISP.EISP archive field drawing of trachite statue, Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Drawing by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, © JVT/EISP.


Trachite statue, Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photos by David C. Ochsner, drawings by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati © JVT/EISP.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Palau Statue Survey Map & Data Table: 1987

Location of monolithic sculpture sites recorded during our 1987 fieldwork on Babeldaob island, Republic of Belau, Micronesia.

Location of monolithic sculpture sites recorded during our 1987 fieldwork on Babeldaob island, Republic of Belau, Micronesia.

Table listing twenty-eight stone monoliths recorded during our 1987 fieldwork in Belau, Micronesia. Project number 27 was said to resemble Easter Island sculpture.

Table listing twenty-eight stone monoliths recorded during our 1987 fieldwork in Belau, Micronesia. Project number 27 was said to resemble Easter Island sculpture.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Comparative Studies, Field Notes & Documents |

Trachite Statue, Ahu 1, Poike

EISP archive photo of trachite statue (on Ahu 1), Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photo by David C. Ochsner, © JVT/EISP.

EISP archive photo of trachite statue (on Ahu 1), Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photo by David C. Ochsner, © JVT/EISP.

EISP archive drawing of trachite statue (on Ahu 1), Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Drawing by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, © JVT/EISP.

EISP archive drawing of trachite statue (on Ahu 1), Poike, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Drawing by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, © JVT/EISP.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Basalt Statue, PSE 84

EISP crew Noemi Pakarati, Jo Anne Van Tilburg, Curtiss H. Johnson (J. Weber in the background) documenting the basalt Moai 84, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photo by David C. Ochsner, copyright JVT/EISP.

EISP crew Noemi Pakarati, Jo Anne Van Tilburg, Curtiss H. Johnson (J. Weber in the background) documenting the basalt Moai 84, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photo by David C. Ochsner, copyright JVT/EISP.

EISP archive photo of basalt Moai 84, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photo by David C. Ochsner, copyright JVT/EISP.

EISP archive photo of basalt Moai 84, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989. Photo by David C. Ochsner, copyright JVT/EISP.

EISP archive drawing by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati of basalt Moai 84, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989.

EISP archive drawing by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati of basalt Moai 84, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1989.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Easter Island Quadrangle Map

Map showing the distribution of documented statues and statue sites to 1989. Archaeological survey quadrangles after the University of Chile. EISP data. Drafting by Curtiss H. Johnson, 1989.Map showing the distribution of documented statues and statue sites to 1989. Archaeological survey quadrangles after the University of Chile. EISP data. Drafting by Curtiss H. Johnson, 1989.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents, Moai Inventory |

Moai A Hani

Dr. Raymond Dillon or John Hayes from the yacht Yankee, taking a photo of Moai A Hani in 1938-40. © EISP/JVT/Courtesy of Jennifer Johnson.

Dr. Raymond Dillon or John Hayes from the yacht Yankee, taking a photo of Moai A Hani in 1938-40. © EISP/JVT/Courtesy of Jennifer Johnson.

Moai A Hani lying in a fisherman's yard at Hanga Piko in 1984. ©EISP/JVT/Photo: D. Ochsner.

Moai A Hani lying in a fisherman's yard at Hanga Piko in 1984. ©EISP/JVT/Photo: D. Ochsner.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Ahu Tongariki: Moai 14-548-009

Prone Moai 14-548-009 on the unrestored site of Ahu Tongariki. The ahu was destroyed by a tsunami in 1960. © 1984 EISP/JVT/Photo: D.C. Ochsner.

Prone Moai 14-548-009 on the unrestored site of Ahu Tongariki. The ahu was destroyed by a tsunami in 1960. © 1984 EISP/JVT/Photo: D.C. Ochsner.

Drawing of prone Moai RR-548-009 showing incised 'tattoo' lines on the neck. © 1992 EISP/JVT/Drawing: C. Arèvalo Pakarati.

Drawing of prone Moai RR-548-009 showing incised 'tattoo' lines on the neck. © 1992 EISP/JVT/Drawing: C. Arèvalo Pakarati.


Detail of the broken right ear on Moai 14-548-009 at Ahu Tongariki © 1984 EISP/JVT/Photos: D. C. Ochsner.

Detail of the broken right ear on Moai 14-548-009 at Ahu Tongariki © 1984 EISP/JVT/Photos: D. C. Ochsner.

Incised lines on the neck of prone Moai 14-548-009 at Ahu Tongariki © 1984 EISP/JVT/Photos: D. C. Ochsner.

Incised lines on the neck of prone Moai 14-548-009 at Ahu Tongariki © 1984 EISP/JVT/Photos: D. C. Ochsner.

Pages from Jo Anne Van Tilburg's field book detailing attributes of the right ear (left) and incised 'tattoo' on prone Moai 14-548-009. © 1984 EISP/Notes: J. Van Tilburg.

Pages from Jo Anne Van Tilburg's field book detailing attributes of the right ear (left) and incised 'tattoo' on prone Moai 14-548-009. © 1984 EISP/Notes: J. Van Tilburg.

Posted on May 3rd, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents, Sculpture Embellishment |

Ahu Vai Mata 32-059 & Moai 32-023-001

Sketch map showing Moai 32-023-001 and associated features related to Ahu Vai Mata. © 1983 EISP/JVT/Sketch: Frank Bock.

Sketch map showing Moai 32-023-001 and associated features related to Ahu Vai Mata. © 1983 EISP/JVT/Sketch: Frank Bock.

Moai 32-023-001 in front of Ahu Vai Mata. © 1989 EISP/JVT/Photo: David C. Ochsner.

Moai 32-023-001 in front of Ahu Vai Mata. © 1989 EISP/JVT/Photo: David C. Ochsner.

Detail of wall construction at Ahu Vai Mata (32-059). © 1989 EISP/JVT/Photo: David C. Ochsner.

Detail of wall construction at Ahu Vai Mata (32-059). © 1989 EISP/JVT/Photo: David C. Ochsner.


Our field crew found a very unusual oval, paved feature 32-023-004 with a partially buried oval red scoria basin incorporated. Subsequent excavation by the University of Chile revealed an extended burial dated to the 1600s. Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Photo taken in 1984 by David C. Ochsner, © EISP/JVT.Our field crew found a very unusual oval, paved feature 32-023-004 with a partially buried oval red scoria basin incorporated. Subsequent excavation by the University of Chile revealed an extended burial dated to the 1600s. Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Photo taken in 1989 by David C. Ochsner, © EISP/JVT.Our field crew found a very unusual oval, paved feature 32-023-004 with a partially buried oval red scoria basin incorporated. Subsequent excavation by the University of Chile revealed an extended burial dated to the 1600s. Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Photos taken in 1984 and 1989 by David C. Ochsner, © EISP/JVT.

Posted on May 3rd, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Rano Raraku Slope, Small Moai “Little Tukuturi”

EISP Archival notes about "Pequeno Tukuturi", a small <em>moai</em> on the slopes of Rano Raraku Interior Quarry

This page from Dr. Van Tilburg's field book shows the moai labeled as "Pequeno Tukuturi", and details basic measurements.

A page from Dr. Van Tilburg's field book shows the moai labeled as "Pequeno Tukuturi", with measurements.

Dr. Steve Williams, Jo Anne Van Tilburg, Dr. Frank Bock and A.J. Bock measuring Little Tukuturi with large-scale calipers.© EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Dr. Steve Williams, Jo Anne Van Tilburg, Dr. Frank Bock and A.J. Bock measuring Little Tukuturi with large-scale calipers.© EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Posted on May 3rd, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Ahu Akahanga 07-584

Ahu Akahanga (07-584), surveyed by EISP in 1983. Plans drawn by Johannes Van Tilburg, with conjectural reconstruction of three statues (drawn by Cristián Arévalo Pakarati) and associated with platforms 1, 3, and 4.


Ahu Akahanga (7-584) landward side. Photo by David C. Ochsner, © JVT.

Ahu Akahanga (07-584) landward side. Photo by David C. Ochsner, © JVT.

Plan view of Ahu Akahanga (7-584) seaward side (top) and landward side, by Johannes Van Tilburg, 1983.

Plan view of Ahu Akahanga (07-584) seaward side (top) and landward side, by Johannes Van Tilburg, 1983.

Plan view of Ahu Akahanga (7-548) with conjectural restoration of three moai, each with a different ahu construction. Plan drawn by Johannes Van Tilburg, 1983. Reconstructed statues drawn by Cristian Arevalo Pakarati.

Plan view of Ahu Akahanga (7-548) with conjectural restoration of three moai, each with a different ahu construction. Plan drawn by Johannes Van Tilburg, 1983. Reconstructed statues drawn by Cristian Arevalo Pakarati.


Posted on May 3rd, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Ahu Akahanga 07-581

Moai 07-581-001, which fell in the process of being moved to or raised on the ahu. © 1989 EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Moai 07-581-001, which fell in the process of being moved to or raised on the ahu. © 1989 EISP/JVT/Photo: D. C. Ochsner.

Ahu Akahanga, site 07-581. © EISP/JVT/Plan: Raul Paoa Ika, 1983, Drawing: Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati, 1989.

Ahu Akahanga, site 07-581. © EISP/JVT/Plan: Raul Paoa Ika, 1983, Drawing: Cristiàn Arèvalo Pakarati, 1989.

Posted on May 3rd, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Vinapu Pukao, 02-210

EISP field sketches by Raúl Paoa of pukao (topknots) found at Vinapu, 1983. These were used in the process of visually reconstructing Moai 02-210-004.EISP field sketches by Raúl Paoa of pukao (topknots) found at Vinapu, 1983. These were used in the process of visually reconstructing Moai 02-210-004.


EISP field sketches by Raúl Paoa of pukao (topknots) found at Vinapu, 1983. These were used in the process of visually reconstructing Moai 02-210-004.

Posted on May 3rd, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Ahu Vaihu 06-255

EISP plan showing the projected line indicating the curvature of the seaward wall, Ahu Vaihu (06-255), by Raúl Paoa, 1983.

EISP plan showing the projected line indicating the curvature of the seaward wall, Ahu Vaihu (6-255), by Raúl Paoa, 1983.EISP field sketches of Ahu Vaihu (06-255) by Raúl Paoa, 1983.

EISP field sketches of Ahu Vaihu (06-255) by Raúl Paoa, 1983.

EISP field sketches of Ahu Vaihu (06-255) by Raúl Paoa, 1983.


Posted on May 3rd, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Moai at the Fonck Museum, Viña Del Mar, Chile

Moai FM-VDM-001 in front of the Museo Fonck. <br />©1989 EISP/JVT/ Photo: J. Van Tilburg

Moai FM-VDM-001 in front of the Museo Fonck. ©1989 EISP/JVT

Museo Fonck, 2004 <br/>©EISP/JVT/ Photo: A. Hom

Museo Fonck, 2004 ©EISP/JVT/ Photo: A. Hom

A page from Raúl Paoa’s sketch book, detailing the moai standing outside the Fonck Museum in Viña Del Mar, Chile. ©EISP/JVT/Sketch: Raúl Paoa.

A page from Raúl Paoa’s sketch book, detailing the moai standing outside the Fonck Museum in Viña Del Mar, Chile. ©EISP/JVT/Sketch: Raúl Paoa.

Posted on May 1st, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: Field Notes & Documents, Museum Objects Inventory |

Transport Experiment: Measurement Diagrams & Models

Drawings by Jan Van Tilburg depict our method of raising the statue. Supervised by Raphael Rapu, this part of the work was jointly directed by Van Tilburg and C. Cristino. ©1998 EISP/JVT.

Drawings by Jan Van Tilburg depict our method of raising the statue. Supervised by Raphael Rapu, this part of the work was jointly directed by Van Tilburg and C. Cristino. ©1998 EISP/JVT.

Drawings by Jan Van Tilburg showing the Polynesian canoe ladder, the basic design concept of our statue transport A-frame sledge. ©1998 EISP/JVT.

Drawings by Jan Van Tilburg showing the Polynesian canoe ladder, the basic design concept of our statue transport A-frame sledge.


Wire diagrams arrived at after photogrammetric work accomplished at Ahu Akivi depict the statistically average statue used in computer simulations and then in our transport experiment. ©1992 EISP/JVT. Wire diagrams arrived at after photogrammetric work accomplished at Ahu Akivi depict the statistically average statue used in computer simulations and then in our transport experiment. ©1992 EISP/JVT. Wire diagrams arrived at after photogrammetric work accomplished at Ahu Akivi depict the statistically average statue used in computer simulations and then in our transport experiment. ©1992 EISP/JVT.

Wire diagrams arrived at after photogrammetric work accomplished at Ahu Akivi depict the statistically average statue used in computer simulations and then in our transport experiment. ©1992 EISP/JVT.

Posted on May 1st, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1990s, Field Notes & Documents, Transport Experiment |

Measuring Calipers

Andy Anderson and Jo Anne Van Tilburg improvising with bamboo poles as measuring devices, Easter Island (Rapa Nui). DCO/JVT.

Andy Anderson and Jo Anne Van Tilburg improvising with bamboo poles as measuring devices, Easter Island (Rapa Nui). DCO/JVT.

Design sketch for first set of measuring calipers by Johannes Van Tilburg.

Design sketch for first set of measuring calipers by Johannes Van Tilburg.

Posted on April 15th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Bas-relief Dorsal Designs

Bas-relief dorsal design on the back of an upright statue, Ahu Naunau, Anakena, Easter Island (Rapa Nui). DCO/JVT

Bas-relief dorsal design on the back of an upright statue, Ahu Nau Nau, Anakena, Easter Island (Rapa Nui). DCO/JVT

Detail of a similar but more complex design on the back of a fallen and broken torso, Ahu Oroi, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1983. Drawn by Raúl Paoa, EISP.

Detail of a similar but more complex design on the back of a fallen and broken torso, Ahu Oroi, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), 1983. Drawn by Raúl Paoa, EISP.

Posted on April 15th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents, Sculpture Embellishment |

Sketch of Rano Raraku Exterior Quarry

Rano Raraku Exterior Quarry by Johannes Van Tilburg. ©1982 EISP/JVT

Rano Raraku Exterior Quarry by Johannes Van Tilburg. ©1982 EISP/JVT

Posted on April 14th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, Field Notes & Documents |

Rano Raraku Exterior Quarry: Moai sketches and neck tracings (RR-002-077)

Moai RR-002-077 Located on the slopes of Exterior Rano Raraku Quarry, this moai measures 397 cm (exposed) above ground and has unique attributes including a bas-relief makemake 'mask' or face carved onto the left shoulder and a pattern of incised lines decorating the neck. Possible red pigment is also on the neck and on the chin is a bas-relief vertical line. — Notes from the Easter Island Statue Project Database
Moai RR-002-077 Located on the slopes of Exterior Rano Raraku Quarry, this moai measures 397 cm (exposed) above ground and has unique attributes including a bas-relief makemake ‘mask’ or face carved onto the left shoulder and a pattern of incised lines decorating the neck. Possible red pigment is also on the neck and on the chin is a bas-relief vertical line. — Notes from the Easter Island Statue Project Database

Posted on April 14th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: 1980s, 1990s, Field Notes & Documents, Sculpture Embellishment |

Ahu Akahanga, Moai 07-585-001

Moai 07-585-001 at the base of a seacliff. ©EISP/JVT/Sketch: Raul Paoa Ika.

Moai 07-585-001 at the base of a seacliff. ©EISP/JVT/Sketch: Raul Paoa Ika.

Field sketches of Moai 07-585-001, top of head (upper), base, and front view. ©EISP/JVT/Sketch: Raúl Paoa Ika.Field sketches of Moai 07-585-001, top of head (upper), base, and front view. ©EISP/JVT/Sketch: Raúl Paoa Ika.

Field sketches of Moai 07-585-001, top of head (upper), base, and front view.
©EISP/JVT/Sketch: Raúl Paoa Ika.

Posted on May 4th, 2009 by EISP Staff | Categories: Field Notes & Documents |